'earmark' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'eare,' where 'ear' meant 'ear' and 'mearc' meant 'mark.'

'eare' transformed into the Middle English word 'ermark,' and eventually became the modern English word 'earmark.'

Initially, it meant 'a mark on the ear of livestock for identification,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a distinguishing mark or feature.'